26/02/2026
Search for the blink and read the hoof 😁
Continuous event lines (often referred to as growth rings) are an early warning sign that something isn’t quite right. They act as small red flags, indicating that your horse may be struggling — most commonly from a metabolic imbalance — and likely has been for some time.
Each event line represents a minor laminitic episode, commonly described as Low-Grade Laminitis (LGL) or Subclinical Laminitis (SCL).
You may also notice a slight dishing in the dorsal hoof wall. This is another cause for concern, as it suggests the laminae are beginning to stretch and weaken. Again, this is a classic sign associated with LGL or SCL.
There are many subtle indicators like these, and they should not be overlooked. It may not take much to tip a horse from subclinical issues into acute laminitis — the obvious trigger might be a flush of spring grass, but sometimes it’s something less apparent, such as routine worming or vaccinations.
So, what would I recommend?
1: Clean up the diet — thoroughly.
This means more than simply feeding low sugar and low starch. Aim for a diet free from by-products, fillers, molasses, and alfalfa. Choose hay over haylage wherever possible. Personally, I also avoid chaff and beet pulp.
2: Support liver function.
Products such as Remount by Ron Fields or L94 by Trinity Consultants are my preferred options.
3: Assess environmental stressors.
Consider whether your horse is experiencing stress from limited turnout, separation from companions, inadequate rest, or other management factors. Chronic stress can significantly disrupt metabolic health and overall physiological balance.
4: Monitor closely.
Keep a careful eye on new hoof growth. Ideally, the event lines will gradually disappear as balance is restored.
If concerns persist, run blood tests.
Testing for PPID (Cushing’s disease) or EMS (Equine Metabolic Syndrome) may be the next appropriate step.
Early intervention makes all the difference. Paying attention to these subtle signs can help prevent a much more serious laminitic episode..
